Defensive poser for Saturday

Boss Owen Coyle has a defensive decision to make ahead of Saturday's pre-Christmas clash with Reading.

For Rovers will be without four central defenders for the visit of the Royals to Ewood Park.

Charlie Mulgrew is sidelined due to the groin injury picked up against Preston, whilst Gordon Greer serves a one-match ban following his second off against Brighton. They join long-term injury victims Elliott Ward and Tommie Hoban in missing the weekend match.

That could mean a first senior start for Wes Brown, with youngsters Scott Wharton and Ryan Nyambe also in contention.

"We have four centre-backs missing for Saturday," said Coyle. "Charlie Mulgrew is out, Gordon Greer is suspended, Tommie Hoban has the dislocated shoulder and Elliott Ward remains out.

"Wes Brown has been able to get more training under his belt in the last few weeks, so we'll look at it. We have a number of options in that position so we'll look at the best way to go about it and be ready to go on Saturday.

"Danny Guthrie is still out and Corry Evans picked up an injury the other night so we'll see how he is and give him as long as we can. There are one or two other niggles here and there, so we have certainly not been blessed.

"Having said that it is an opportunity for whoever comes in to show that they have the merit and the quality to play in the team and we certainly feel that whoever comes in is capable of going and winning this game and that is what we will have to focus on."

Supporters can see the match against the Royals at the pre-Christmas price in all areas of just £10 for Adults, £5 for Seniors aged 65 and over, £5 for 18-21 year-olds and a fantastic £2 for those fans aged 17 and under.

Book online today at www.eticketing.co.uk/onerovers, buy in store at the Roverstore, Ewood Park, or over the phone on 01254 372000.